Dear Students and Parents/Guardians,

             One of the requirements for graduation in the state of Tennessee is to pass the three Gateway examinations,
Algebra I, Biology, and English.  This does not only refer to those who are in those classes now, but for students who
have not passed the exams in past years.  (Please note – students who have failed the exam(s) are required to
take the test(s) twice each year, December and May.)  On December 2nd, students who have previously failed will
be given the opportunity to retake the exam.

            In order to better prepare students for the Gateway exam, Memphis City Schools has purchased a tutorial
program that will accelerate learning through web-based instruction.  The address for the site
is http://epgyschools.stanford.edu/district/mcsk12.  As mandated by the school system, each student is required to
complete 90 minutes of study per week.  Teachers, administrators, and board administrators will monitor the
time worked on the tutorial sessions through the web-based program.

            In an incentive for my students to complete this mandate, I have offered them 50 points (a quiz grade)
for nine-weeks if they have successfully completed their weekly assignment.  I realize that
there are some families who do not have Internet access at home, but this tutorial can be completed wherever
there is Internet service – school library, community library, and relatives’ and friends’ homes.  Students will be given the necessary login name and password to successfully enter the program.